Grabbing and Holding 'the Rock'

The lone battle honor on the Royal Marines’ crest recalls early 18th-century exploits that secured a future anchor of the British Empire—Gibraltar.

For centuries the Royal Marines have served Great Britain around the world, variously functioning as soldiers, sailors, commandos, and policemen. They played a central role in founding the British Empire and provided the Royal Navy with a power-projection capability that enabled Britannia’s realm to grow and be maintained. Watershed dates in the service’s history include 1755, when legislation established a permanent British corps of marines under clear Admiralty control, and 1802, when King George III bestowed the title Royal Marines.

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